KEEP OUR FOOT ON THE PEDAL

Dutchman Kevin van Veen says he’s fully aware of the threats Oxford United pose, but states the Iron squad is optimistic of coming away from the Kassam Stadium with a victory.

Scunthorpe take on the U’s in the third round of the Checkatrade Trophy and, after a tough battle with Tuesday night’s opponents at Glanford Park in November, the forward isn’t envisaging anything easier this time around.

Speaking to The Iron PlayerHD ahead of the game, van Veen said: “They were a strong team, and very solid also. They’ve got some good players, but so do we, and I’m confident in our chances.”

United head into the tie off the back of taking all three points in a 3-2 home win over Bury on Saturday.

Van Veen highlighted the importance of the result against the Shakers, and believes the Iron played some superb football, particularly in an opening period which brought about three goals.

“I thought it was a really good first half to start with, and I think it’s one of the better first halves we’ve played,” van Veen declared.

“In the second half we let them back in and dropped off. We need to maybe keep our foot on the pedal and keep going.

“Overall, I was happy with the three points.”

The 25-year-old played a crucial role in the scoring of United’s second goal, as he showed impeccable close control, before releasing Stephen Dawson, who slotted home his first for the club.

The forward was delighted with his contribution and also praised the Irishman for what he thought was a terrific strike.

“Me and the gaffer spoke about securing the ball, and keeping ball possession,” he explained.

“I dropped off a little, and the ball came into my feet.

“Out the corner of my eye I saw Daws’ (Stephen Dawson) movement, and I thought if I could get the ball in between (the defenders) we could play further on from there.

“He made a great run though, with a lot of pace, and he finished it really well. It was a good goal.”

In his eyes, Saturday’s result has been on the cards for a while, given the level of performance that has been shown in previous matches.

“We’ve been playing really well,” he stated.

“We were very unlucky not to get at least a point at Bolton and against Peterborough we were unfortunate not to win.

“It just feels so good when you win and you’re climbing up the table, because that’s where we belong I think.

“We’re in second place now, and it’s up to Bolton to catch us up.

“Personally, I prefer to put pressure on the other teams, but we definitely want to be on that top spot and stay there.”

See much more from Kevin van Veen and Graham Alexander on The Iron PlayerHD.